From staff reports

First-year Alcorn State University football coach Ernest T. Jones, fired Tuesday, fired back today through attorneys Wayne Ferrell of Jackson, Paul Koerber of Jackson and Ricky Lefft of Columbia, S.C.

“I am saddened by the decision of the university,” Jones said in a statement released by his legal team. “This is a decision that not only affects me, but affects the athletes, the coaches, the football program and the university. I was recruited by Dr. (George E.) Ross to return to Alcorn State, my alma mater, to lead the football program back to the level of prominence and success we have historically enjoyed as Alcornites.”

Ross said Wednesday Jones was fired for contract violations, not team performance reasons. He listed “contumacious conduct” and said Jones would not be paid the balance remaining on his initial four-year contract.

A search is reportedly under way for a new coach and several assistants.

Jones and his legal team plan to appeal the firing to Mississippi courts if needed, the release said.

According to Jones’ legal team, the coach is entitled under College Board rules and university policies to an impartial hearing that he did not receive.

“I want to ensure all of my fellow Alcornites that I have operated at the heights of integrity and honor, and I conducted myself everyday in a manner which was both in the best interest of the university and the young men who I was hired to serve,” Jones said in the statement. “It is my hope that I can continue to serve the student athletes, administration and fans of Alcorn State for years to come.”

The Braves had a 2-10 season.